34% of motorists have reduced their driving habits due to rising fuel prices, according to new Aviva research
Monday 17 March 2025, Dublin: New research reveals that large numbers of motorists are making changes to their driving habits in response to the ongoing increase in petrol and diesel prices across the country. Respondents to the survey*, which polled adults nationwide on behalf of Aviva Insurance Ireland DAC (Aviva) show that 34% of motorists have reduced their driving habits, with 10% reporting a significant reduction and 24% a slight reduction to combat the impact of rising fuel prices.
The study revealed that 13% of motorists are now using public transport more frequently, 11% are opting to walk more and 6% have switched to an electric vehicle to mitigate rising fuel costs. Despite these shifts however, 45% of respondents have not altered their driving habits, while 4% have switched to diesel cars to save on fuel expenses. Interestingly, only 1% of those surveyed reported an increase in their driving.
The Aviva survey found that:
- Some 14% of those aged 35-44 have significantly reduced the extent of their driving, higher amongst women at 12% v’s men at 8%.
- Those who have not changed their driving habits is highest amongst those aged 45-54, and with an equal representation of men and women at 45%.
- Men are more likely (8%) to have switched to an electric vehicle than women at 3%.
- Those moving to public transport is highest in Dublin at 22% v’s Connacht + Ulster at 6%.
Primary reasons for driving:
Commuting to work is the top reason for driving amongst 37% of respondents, followed by running errands such as shopping or attending appointments at 25%. Other reasons included leisure activities (15%), visiting family and friends (11%), and driving children to school and other activities (9%). Only 3% claimed to drive to college or university.
- Those driving to work was highest amongst the 45–54-year-olds and amongst those living in Munster and Connacht/Ulster at 45%, respectively.
- Those in the older age cohort of 55+ are more likely to use their car for running errands at 38% and higher amongst women at 28% v’s men at 22%.
Given the cost-of-living challenges affecting families and individuals across Ireland, it’s unsurprising that a significant number of motorists are reducing their driving habits to help mitigate the rising fuel prices. February marked the fourth consecutive month of increases in petrol and diesel prices. Interestingly, our research indicates that these rising costs are also encouraging motorists to switch to electric vehicles as a cost-saving measure.
Commenting on the survey findings Julie Frazer, Underwriting & Product Lead, Aviva said
“However, the research findings also highlight that motorists based in the Dublin region have an advantage, as they generally have access to a variety of alternatives, such as public transport, cycling, or walking. In contrast, those living in rural areas often face limited or no public transport options, and the distances involved may be too great for cycling or walking, even for the fittest individuals. Nevertheless, the option to switch to a more cost-effective electric vehicle is available to all, with the highest percentage of motorists selecting this option coming from Dublin (11%) and Munster at 6%,” concluded Julie Frazer.
*The survey was carried out by iReach Insights on behalf of Aviva.